Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic Bonding

Bonding is a common treatment choice for solving a variety of cosmetic issues. Like porcelain veneers, bonding can change the shape and size of a tooth — which when executed properly, can re-shape the smile, fill small gaps between teeth and correct bite problems. In addition, bonding is often used to repair surface flaws in the tooth, such as cracks, chips or discoloration.
Bonding does not reduce the tooth's original structure. It is quick, painless and relatively inexpensive. Bonding generally requires very little drilling and most treatments can be performed in a single visit without the use of anesthetic.
The material used is a natural-colored, composite resin (or plastic) which is hardened with an ultra-violet light. A precise shade is selected to match existing teeth. The composite is then applied in fine layers, with each coat hardened slightly until the desired amount has been applied. After the final hardening stage, the bond is sculpted for the desired shape and texture.
It should be noted that cosmetic bondings, just like natural teeth, are subject to discoloration from coffee or tobacco. Bondings typically do not last as long as porcelain veneers and may require touch-ups or replacement in 5 to 10 years.

SENSITIVE TEETH

SENSITIVE TEETH

Many of us say we have "sensitive teeth." We usually mean that we feel twinges of pain or discomfort in our teeth in certain situations, including:

• Drinking or eating cold things.
• Drinking or eating hot things.
• Eating sweets.
• Touching the teeth with other teeth or the tongue.

Symptoms

Both dentinal and pulpal sensitivity usually involve reactions to temperature or pressure. Sensitivity to cold drinks or foods is the most common symptom. Less often, the teeth are sensitive to hot temperatures. If a single tooth changes from cold sensitivity to hot sensitivity, the tooth's nerve may be dying. In this case, root canal treatment is necessary.

Diagnosis

Your dentist will look at your dental history and will examine your mouth. He or she will ask about your oral habits. Grinding or clenching your teeth can contribute to sensitivity. Your dentist also will look for decay, deep metal fillings and exposed root surfaces. He or she may use an explorer—a metal instrument with a sharp point—to test teeth for sensitivity.
A tooth may be sensitive to cold for several weeks after a filling is placed. The metals in amalgam (silver) conduct the cold very well, transmitting it to the pulp. Bonded (tooth-colored) fillings require etching the tooth with acid before the filling is placed. In some cases, this etching removes enough enamel to make the tooth sensitive. However, advances in bonding now make it less likely to cause tooth sensitivity.
Your dentist or endodontist can conduct tests to see if you need root canal treatment.

Prevention

Dentinal sensitivity — You might be able to reduce your chances of dentinal sensitivity by:

• Brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
• Using a soft or ultrasoft toothbrush and brushing gently up and down, rather than side to side.
• Using a fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse.
• Using a toothpaste that has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval and provides protection against sensitivity.
• Getting treatment for grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism).

Pulpal sensitivity — If a tooth needs root canal treatment, there is no good way to prevent pulpal sensitivity other than to get the needed treatment. Delaying root canal treatment may result in further problems and is not recommended.

By Dr. Ana Oviedo, Mexico Dentist

What is an Impacted Tooth?

Wisdom Teeth

Are also known as third molars. They are the 4 last teeth to erupt in your mouth. This generally occurs at about 18 years of age.

What is an Impacted Tooth?

When there is a lack of space in the dental arch a wisdom tooth becomes impacted. The impacted tooth is positioned against another tooth, bone, or soft tissue so that complete eruption is unlikely.

What happens to impacted teeth?

Impacted and partially impacted tooth can be painful and lead to infection. They may damage the adjacent tooth, roots or even over crowd the teeth. More serious problems may occur if the sac that surrounds the impacted tooth becomes filled with fluid and enlarges to form a cyst. As the cyst grows it may hollow out the jaw bone and permanently harm adjacent teeth, the surrounding bone and nerves. Rarely, if a cyst is not treated, a tumor may develop from its walls and a more serious surgical procedure may be necessary to remove it.

Should my Tooth be pulled if it Hasn’t Caused Any problems Yet?

Damage can occur without you being aware of it, because not all third molars are painful or visible. As patients age, wisdom teeth are more likely to cause problems, they become more difficult to remove and complications are more likely to occur. It is Estimated that about 85% of third molars will eventually need to be removed.

By Dr. Cirenia Aparicio, Dentist in Mexico